New Mexico United Way Chapter Resumes Firearms Raffles

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (AP) — A New Mexico affiliate of United Way is resuming raffles of firearms to raise money. The Alamogordo Daily News reports (http://bit.ly/2b4gKmI) that the United Way of Otero County confirmed last week that it received permission from United Way Worldwide to continue raffle sales. The organization had been selling 2017 calendars with a raffle entry ticket attached for $50. Buyers had the chance to be entered into a twice-weekly firearms raffle. United Way of Otero County had suspended the raffle earlier this month after a complaint by New Mexicans to Prevent Gun Violence. United Way Worldwide spokesman Ryan Powers declined to comment, calling the matter an "internal membership discussion." The firearms being raffled include shotguns, handguns and an AR-15 rifle. Winners must undergo background checks, which gun-control advocates say are flawed.